Towing in Alberta - MiM follow up

We had a lot of problems in Camrose this year. Problems with
grouchy land owners and some bad luck with the county.

Most land owners in the area are very supportive. A few that were
up set that we were in the way. I think it's a bit of a road rage
attitude. I know I can get grouchy when traffic isn't moving as
fast as I think it should. After talking to some of the less than
happy land owners and explained to them why were there and that we
would be happy to do what we could to work with them it helped a lot
to cool tempers. I think it is important to educate and work with
land owners at all flying sites. The RCMP were called and came
out. They took some information from us but had no problem with us
being there.

Early in the week we were unlucky when a special constable for the
county (basically a bylaw officer) stumbled upon us setting up.
Pilots have been using these roads for 20 years. Many county
employees know we fly here but the constable felt we were a
liability issue. We told him we have all signed waivers and carry
liability insurance. Thursday I got a call saying they decided they
didn't want us to use the road any more for liability reasons. They
have a new bylaw that basically reads that you can't tow people on
sleds, snowboards ect. The owner of the golf course where we camp
made a call to the county commissioner and he agreed to let us
finish out the week. We have great relations with the people at the
golf course and they look forward to having us back each year. It
sure helps having good friends. Shirley would only take $60 for
each site with full hook ups and no charge for tenting. His normal
price for a week is $145 which is still half of what most camp
grounds charge for full hook ups. They also have showers and
laundry. I can't begin to express what a great guy Shirley is. If
you are in the area drop by the Double Dam golf course 10km west of
Rosiland and say hi. You always get a warm welcome.

I have been in contact with one of the county counselors and he said
he would be happy to take our case before counsel. Also Rick Miller
offered his help. Rick is hang glider pilot for the last 20 years
and is our provincial finance critic. As I mentioned their main
concern is liability. Our waivers and insurance will be a big part
in getting these sites back. Hopefully we will end up in a better
position and instead of having a low profile that no one knows about
us to having official permission to use the roads. One of the
county officials that were out mention that it would be good to have
some signs set up on the road. If any one has any suggestions,
questions or comments please let me know.

Rob Clarkson